Running for outgoing councilor Tim Grimes’ seat are write-in candidates Alan Roth and Catherine Hemshorn.
Alan Roth
Roth, 55, is a general contractor who has lived in Stayton for eight years. Frustrated by his attempt to develop a piece of property in town for two and a half years, he decided to step in and find out how he could help facilitate the process. He wants to bring more efficiency and consistency to city services.
“Some of the city’s rules are not very efficient,” said Roth. “I thought if I can’t make it happen, I’d better get down there and find out why.”
He believes those running the city ought to think ahead.
“I want to see more efficiency and consistency in city services,” said Roth, who wants to put to work his knowledge of city codes and city officials.
“Somebody’s got to bring a little common sense to bring down costs and make things happen. And I’ll ask the questions ‘why.’”
Roth is married to Cherie and has three stepsons and three grown daughters.
Catherine Hemshorn
Hemshorn, 46, a longtime business owner who has lived in the Stayton-Sublimity area since childhood, founded the now-disbanded Santiam Business Network. She served as board member for the Stayton/Sublimity Chamber of Commerce and Sublimity Fire Department.
“I participated on the city’s charter review committee,” said Hemshorn, of her decision to run. “It’s very closely related with how council functions for the city. Going through that process makes some of the issues very apparent.”
A major priority for Hemshorn is long-term planning for Stayton/Sublimity schools, including making sure that growth doesn’t outpace school capacity and to see better ties develop between Stayton and Sublimity.
Hemshorn has lived in Stayton for the past six years and has two daughters, Christine, 20, and Carin, 16, a junior at Stayton High School.
“It’s nice to have people interested enough in the community to apply for Tim’s position,” said City Administrator Don Eubank. “We hope to get a good cohesive council and move along on a lot of projects.”
The candidates all agree to uphold the city council goals, which include building and maintaining contingency funds; acquiring the Longhorn Cattle property, prioritizing and financing street repairs; continuing planning for the new city hall; continue reviewing the city’s charter; continue the methamphetamine education, prevention and enforcement program; provide adequate recreational activities for all ages, and increase the citywide cleanup effort.
